Steve Lavin landed another impressive recruit yesterday, getting a verbal commitment from JaKarr Sampson, a senior who played at LeBron James’s alma mater, St. Vincent-St. Mary, before transferring to New Hampshire’s Brewster Academy. It’s a nice get: Dick Weiss says Sampson’s a potential McDonald’s All-American and reports that he’s ranked between 25th and 45th nationally by most scouting services. (Rivals.com has him as the twelfth ranked small forward and at 44th overall.)
Sampson, who also plays for the King James Shooting Stars AAU team in Ohio, picked the Red Storm over Tennessee, Louisville, Baylor, and Kansas. And according to his AAU coach, LeBron gave Sampson some advice as he was considering his options. Via the Post: “LeBron told JaKarr just basically to make his own decision and play on a big stage.” Play on a big stage, eh? Fantastic advice, LeBron. If only someone had given it to you.
Star high-school forward commits to St. John’s [NYP]
St. John’s coach Steve Lavin receives verbal commitment from 6-8, 195 pound forward JaKarr Sampson [NYDN]